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Bath confirm deal for Charteris

Welsh international Luke Charteris has expressed his excitement at joining Bath for next season from Racing 92.

The imposing second row, who stands at 206cm, will join Bath ahead of the 2016/17 season.

Having made his international debut against South Africa in 2004, Charteris has gone on to win over 60 Welsh caps, most recently in the 2015 Rugby World Cup.

Renowned for his skilful lineout work and athleticism around the field, the lock made over 140 appearances for Newport Gwent Dragons before moving to France in 2012.

“It is such an ambitious club, and that’s a great atmosphere to be joining,” said Charteris.

“They put a lot of emphasis on player development, making sure that everyone is improving no matter how experienced they are, and that is a very exciting environment to be part of. There is some incredible talent in the squad and I’m really looking forward to heading over and getting started.”

Mike Ford, Bath head coach, added: “Luke has been one of Wales’s standout locks in recent years, and had a very good Rugby World Cup.

"He’s a superb athlete at the set-piece and in the loose, has strong leadership qualities and a lot of experience that he can bring to the squad.

"We’re delighted to have one of the best locks in the world join us, and he will help us keep improving and move quickly on to that next level.”